Holiday Book Gifts for Kids Ages 3 – 5
This holiday season, ignite the fires of imagination, share laughs, and foster new learning experiences by gifting children the magic of brand-new books. In this gift guide, you will discover tales that will captivate parents and children alike. From fresh seasonal stories to uproarious read-alouds and empowering narratives that inspire children to embrace their unique selves, there’s something to delight every reader. Check out these hand-picked recommendations and give yourself and your children a present to enjoy year-round!
Find even more stories through The Year in Books, our curated collection celebrating the books and authors that helped us connect in 2023.
This list originally appeared on ReadBrightly.com.
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1
Add to BookshelfBluey 5-Minute Stories
by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
These six short stories starring the lovable Bluey from Disney’s hit show are the perfect length for reading to little ones. Each story captures the wholesome feel of the show and the fun Bluey has with her friends and family using her vivid imagination.
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2
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Llama Llama’s Little Lie
by Anna Dewdney and Reed Duncan
With a reassuring lesson about the timeless value of honesty, this all-too-relatable book is an invaluable gift to both children and parents! When Little Llama accidentally breaks a frame, he creates a fantastical fib to get out of trouble. Once he tells the truth, he finds solace in the comfort his mother provides as they make amends for his mishap.
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3
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Dolly Parton’s Billy the Kid Makes It Big
by Dolly Parton and Erica S. Perl
Full of determination to fulfill his dream of becoming a country music star, an adorable French bulldog named Billy doesn’t let a group of naysaying big dogs get him down. Inspired by her own pet, Dolly Parton created an admirable character in Billy and a paws-itively fun read-aloud!
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$19.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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4
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Harlem at Four
by Michael Datcher
Vibrant, graffiti-inspired illustrations tell the stories of two Harlems. The first follows a Black father and his daughter enjoying the neighborhood for which she is named. The second part tells the story of the Harlem neighborhood in 1904, the year Philip A. Payton Jr.’s Afro-American Realty Company helped give birth to the Black housing explosion, and America’s Great Black Migration. A beautiful celebration of a historically Black neighborhood and a loving family that lives there.
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5
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When I Talk to God, I Talk About You
by Chrissy Metz and Bradley Collins
The profound love shared between a parent and child radiates from the pages of this gorgeous book. With its soothing tone and heartfelt message, this sweet story is an excellent choice to read while snuggling before bedtime or as a gentle introduction to the world of prayer.
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Why Not You?
by Ciara and Russell Wilson
Lyrical lines encourage children to chase their dreams in this colorful and affirming book by two celebrities who found success by believing in themselves. Grammy-winning star Ciara and Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson provide a powerful message that every child has the potential to accomplish remarkable feats by embracing their inner strength and striving for greatness.
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Everyone Loves Lunchtime but Zia
by Jenny Liao
Zia dreads the Chinese lunches her parents pack for her, but once she learns more about their significance, she embraces her Cantonese culture and cuisine. In sharing her traditions with her classmates, Zia discovers the value of being open-minded about different foods. There is even a recipe to try for adventurous eaters!
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8
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In You I See
by Rachel Emily
This stunning picture book has a heartwarming message that asks children to explore all the layers that make them, their friends, family, and community special. It is easy to judge a book by its cover, but when you take the time to look and get to know people, there is so much more than meets the eye. Vibrant illustrations and beautiful text will make this a family favorite for years to come.
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$16.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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9
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The Frozen Saga: Anna and Elsa’s Journey (Disney Frozen)
by Random House
This special deluxe edition recounts the complete Frozen and Frozen 2 stories. With its stunning illustrations and exciting storyline featuring the lovable Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf, kids won’t want to let this one go!
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10
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Lawrence & Sophia
by Doreen Cronin
Leaving one’s comfort zone can be scary, but friends Lawrence and Sophia demonstrate the value of venturing into the unknown in this sweet friendship story. Inspired by their budding relationship, creators Doreen Cronin and Brian Cronin crafted an endearing tale showing off the rewards of risk-taking.
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Santa’s Gotta Go!
by Derrick Barnes
Who wouldn’t want Santa to live with them forever? While it may sound like a dream, the Mack family quickly discovers the downside of having Santa as a houseguest when his sleigh breaks down on Christmas Eve. Prepare for lots of giggles with this amusing holiday story!
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12
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Beyonce: A Little Golden Book Biography
by Lavaille Lavette
Young BeyoncĂ© fans will adore this Little Golden Book biography about the world-famous superstar. From her childhood in Texas to performing as the lead singer in Destiny’s Child, her story will inspire little ones to work hard and dream big.
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$5.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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13
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Something, Someday
by Amanda Gorman
Embolden children to take on the world with their heads held high in this stirring story from notable creators Amanda Gorman and Christian Robinson. With its inspiring words and enchanting illustrations, this book is a testament to the boundless potential within each of us to make a positive difference in the world.
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14
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Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise
by Reese Witherspoon
Sweet cinnamon biscuits, the exuberant Busy Betty is back for her second exhilarating escapade! Betty creates a thrilling circus as a birthday surprise for her mother, only to receive her own surprise. With her boundless energy, this vibrant character, brought to life by the distinguished Reese Witherspoon, continues to captivate readers’ hearts.
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$19.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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15
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I am Mister Rogers
by Brad Meltzer
Readers learn how the remarkable Fred Rogers encouraged millions by spreading messages of kindness, love, and acceptance through his television show in this enthralling picture book biography. Enriched with a timeline and photographs, this book masterfully encapsulates the essence of an exceptional individual.
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This Book Is Not a Present
by Max Greenfield
Even though it is disguised as a present (fancy bow and all), this book isn’t a present. A skateboard, dog, or socks would have been a present, but a book presents the pressure of feeling like one has to read it. Which requires thinking. In fact, the omniscient narrator can think of NO occasion where a book is an acceptable gift. And then there’s the obligatory “thank you” that receiving a present necessitates. With cartoon-like graphics and bold typography, this book will get a laugh out of reluctant readers!
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Flat Cat
by Tara Lazar
Fans of funny stories with heart will clamor for this purrrfect read-aloud. After a spin in the dryer, poor Flat Cat’s sleek two-dimensional figure transforms into a new fluffy form. The expressive illustrations are expertly paired with witty writing to create a comical story about flexibility.
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Sankofa
by Eric Adjepong
As a first-generation Ghanaian American, Kofi feels conflicted about what cultural dish he should bring for his class potluck. However, after his parents present him with their family cookbook, he gains a profound appreciation for his roots. This is an uplifting and endearing celebration of the power of food and embracing one’s heritage and identity.
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The Serious Goose
by Jimmy Kimmel
Readers are challenged to bring out the silly side of a very serious goose in this humorous story from late-night star Jimmy Kimmel. Complete with a mylar mirror to practice funny faces, this interactive gem is a real crowd-pleaser.
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Dinosaur Book for Kids
by Katie Henries-Meisner
Is there anything better than a brand-new coloring book filled with fascinating facts about your favorite dinos? Paired with a pack of fresh markers or crayons, this dinosaur book provides endless hours of coloring fun. Combine it with some prehistoric figurines to create the ultimate gift for a young dinosaur enthusiast.
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$8.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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All Are Welcome (An All Are Welcome Book)
by Alexandra Penfold
With its inclusive nature, heartfelt language, and vibrant illustrations, this modern-day classic is a must-read. Gentle rhymes follow a group of diverse students throughout their school day, where they are respected and celebrated for their differences. I can’t think of a better gift for teachers or students than a story that helps children feel loved and appreciated.
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Grumpy Monkey Oh, No! Christmas
by Suzanne Lang
Rain annoys Jim, the cranky monkey from the Grumpy Monkey series. He can only locate a green banana and isn’t keen on Christmas cheer. The jungle creatures try to lift his mood and get him into the holiday spirit. But not even songs or fly pot pie cures Jim’s grumps. Eventually, the helpful gorilla, Norman, offers Jim a cup of comforting tea and points out all the good things to notice. With a shift in his attitude, Jim finds a reason to celebrate.
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Nesting Dolls
by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
In this heartwarming tale, a wise grandmother uses homemade nesting dolls as a metaphor to help her granddaughter feel more connected to her family. Each doll in the set is uniquely distinct, yet they harmoniously fit together, mirroring her family’s unity. This touching, well-crafted, and sincere story will resonate with many.
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Hot Dog
by Doug Salati
This award-winning story starring an adorable dachshund desperately trying to beat the heat with a beach vacation is utterly charming. The marvelously descriptive language combined with eye-catching artwork reminds readers of the joy of unwinding and embracing the pleasures of the season.
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$19.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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NO Is All I Know!
by Chris Grabenstein
Oliver McSnow loves to say “No!” all the time. Hysterically expressive illustrations follow him as he nopes each meal, book, and offer to do anything. When his cousin Jess introduces him to the word “Yes,” it’s not only his vocabulary that expands, but his entire outlook. This hilarious story is a must-have for any little naysayer.
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Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree
by Robert Barry
A large, stately Christmas tree gets delivered to Mr. Willowby. However, it’s too tall for the space, so with a wack and a chop, the butler lops off the top. The tree top passes to the upstairs maid, but it’s too tall for her room, so she chops off the top. Off to the gardener goes the smaller tree. Barnaby Bear gets it next, then the fox family and other forest animals. This rhyming holiday classic is worth adding to any home library.
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A Garden in My Hands
by Meera Sriram
On the eve of a wedding, a young girl’s mother adorns her palms with intricate henna designs while sharing cherished tales of their ancestors. This enchanting story comes to life through stunning, vivid illustrations that immerse readers in a world of color and culture.
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Words of Wonder from Z to A
by Zaila Avant-garde
In this enriching book, famed National Spelling Bee champion Zaila Avant-garde shares her adoration for language through 26 of her favorite words, each accompanied by inspiring reflections and uplifting quotes. Budding wordsmiths will delight in exploring the magic of language in this dazzling book.
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Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Lost Christmas!
by Alastair Heim
The long-awaited sequel to the classic holiday story How the Grinch Stole Christmas is finally here! Seuss-inspired rhymes and illustrations follow the Grinch as he tries to win the Whoville Christmas Crown by creating the biggest and best Christmas tree. In a wholly satisfying ending, the Grinch and readers learn an essential lesson about the Christmas spirit.
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Otto the Ornament
by Troy Cummings
Silly puns abound in this humorous holiday story with heart. Shiny and bright, Otto believes he belongs at the top of a Christmas tree instead of in the middle with the other ornaments. The expressive illustrations follow him on his amusing journey of self-discovery, ending with the realization that he shines brightest when highlighting others’ glowing qualities.
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$8.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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How to Talk Like a Bear
by Charlie Grandy
Expect uncontrollable giggles when children unleash their inner beasts while reading this riotous interactive book. As a bear encourages children to roar at varying volume levels, each attempt at bear talk results in funnier and funnier meanings. This irresistible dose of hilarity guarantees a good time for all!
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